Odisha is bracing for widespread heavy rainfall as a low-pressure area is expected to form over the west-central and adjoining northwest Bay of Bengal on Tuesday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported.
The system is likely to intensify over the next 48 hours, significantly impacting the state’s weather.
According to the IMD, this development is expected to trigger intense rainfall across Odisha until May 30, offering relief from the summer heat while also paving the way for the early arrival of the southwest monsoon.
In anticipation, the IMD has issued a yellow warning for 15 districts, including Malkangiri, Koraput, Rayagada, Gajapati, Ganjam, Puri, Khurda, Nayagarh, Kandhamal, Boudh, Sonepur, Balangir, Nuapada, Kalahandi, and Nabarangpur. These regions may face thunderstorms with gusty winds at speeds of 30–40 km/h, along with sudden downpours and Kalbaishakhi (Nor’wester) storms.
Pre-monsoon showers and thunderstorms have already begun in various parts of Odisha, and this pattern is expected to persist over the next five days.
The IMD also clarified that there is no cyclone threat to Odisha. However, if the low-pressure system strengthens as predicted, it will likely facilitate the timely advance of the southwest monsoon into the state following its May 24 onset in Kerala.
